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How to Grow and Care for Sycamore

Sycamore, also known as Great maple, Mock plane, Plane maple, Scottish maple

Sycamore is a robust and adaptable tree, generally known for its low-maintenance nature. Key care points include: ensuring it has ample space to grow, as sycamore can become quite large, and giving it sufficient water during dry periods. Regular pruning can help maintain shape and health, addressing its susceptibility to pests and diseases.

Watering schedule: Every 2 weeks

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun

In This Article

Planting and Growing Sycamore

Toughness	High
Care Level	Low
Care Difficulty	Easy
Lifespan	Perennial
Watering Schedule	Every 2 weeks
Sunlight Requirements	Full sun
Soil Type	Garden Soil
Soil pH	6-7.5
Planting Time	Spring, Fall
Hardiness Zones	5-9

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Varieties of Sycamore

Tricolor sycamore maple

Tricolor sycamore maple has kept the robustness and the size of its parent Sycamore maple (Acer pseudoplatanus), but the foliage has been "improved" to look more attractive. The leaves start pink and eventually turn green with brilliant yellow and white speckles. This cultivar was named after the first Belgian king, Leopold I.

Sycamore 'Worley'

Sycamore 'Worley' is a striking variety of sycamore maple distinguished by its vibrant, golden-yellow leaves that brighten in the sunlight. This robust tree thrives in a range of soil types, appreciating well-drained conditions. Its hardy nature allows it to adapt well to diverse climates, making it a favored choice for ornamental landscaping in temperate regions. The tree's broad, sturdy structure provides ample shade and aesthetic appeal throughout the year.

Sycamore 'Atropurpureum'

Sycamore 'Atropurpureum' is a cultivar of Sycamore maple (Acer pseudoplatanus), selected for the color of its foliage. The leaves of this cultivar feature a dark green surface and a dark purple underside, hence the name: "atro" means "dark" and "purpureum" refers to the color purple.

Sycamore 'Brilliantissimum'

Sycamore 'Brilliantissimum' is a Sycamore maple (Acer pseudoplatanus) cultivar that was selected for two major differences from its parent plant. It grows significantly smaller, and its leaves display dramatic colors. The leaves start salmon-pink in spring, and turn yellow marbled with green in summer. The foliage is truly brilliant, hence the cultivar name.

Common Pests & Diseases

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More General Info About Sycamore

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Sycamore exhibits a substantial, domed profile with a height generally ranging from 40 to 60 feet (12-18 meters), although on rare occasions it can reach up to 115 feet (35 meters). The foliage is composed of broad, green leaves that exhibit five lobes, much like the outstretched hand, with a gentle serration along the margins. The trunk anchors itself prominently, dividing into large, sturdy branches that give way to a widespread canopy. This tree, during the appropriate season, bears winged seeds that twirl to the ground, known as samaras.